If you’re a bourbon lover, Wild Turkey Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, is a must-see stop on your pilgrimage through bourbon country. Nestled atop the rolling hills overlooking the Kentucky River, Wild Turkey has been crafting its iconic whiskey for more than 80 years. With a rich history, stunning scenery, and a bourbon making process steeped in tradition, touring Wild Turkey isn’t just a visit, it’s an experience that will deepen your love for America’s native spirit.
The story of Wild Turkey dates to the 19th century, but the brand as we know it officially got its start in 1940. The name “Wild Turkey” came about in 1942 when a distillery executive brought a bottle of bourbon to a turkey hunting trip. His friends were so impressed with what they were drinking, they began requesting “that wild turkey bourbon.”
The distillery itself has a history rooted in Lawrenceburg’s long-standing bourbon tradition. The distillery site sits on a limestone shelf overlooking the river which makes it ideal for whiskey production. The area’s natural resources, pure water filtered through Kentucky’s limestone and locally grown grains, give the whiskey its distinct flavor profile. Over time Wild Turkey has grown to become one of the most respected names in bourbon.
The “Buddha of Bourbon”
When you step onto the grounds of Wild Turkey, you feel the presence of bourbon royalty. The distillery is guided by the legendary father and son team of Jimmy and Eddie Russell. Together they have a combined 100+ years of experience in the industry.
Jimmy Russell, known as the “Buddha of Bourbon,” joined Wild Turkey in 1954 and worked his way up to Master Distiller in 1967 after his mentor and teacher Bill Hughes passes away. Under his watch, Wild Turkey has maintained its signature high-rye mash bill that gives it the bold, spicy character that Turkey fans have enjoyed for years. In 1981, his son Eddie joined him at the distillery, eventually becoming co-master distiller. Together, they continue to produce some of the best bourbons in the world.
The Wild Turkey Experience
If you have the opportunity to go on a guided tour, you’ll hear stories of Jimmy’s early days and his hands on approach to distilling. If you are lucky, you might even run into and talk with one of the Russell’s during your visit. It definitely adds an unforgettable touch to your Wild Turkey experience.
Wild Turkey offers an immersive tour that takes you from grain to glass. As you explore the distillery, don’t forget to stop and enjoy the sweet smell of fermenting mash in the air. It’s an amazing smell that you will never forget.
Stop #1 – The Visitor’s Center
The tour begins at Wild Turkeys brand new visitor’s center. It’s a beautiful blend of rustic charm and modern design. The center offers sweeping views of the Kentucky River and the rolling hills of central Kentucky, setting the stage for your bourbon adventure. Here you can explore their bourbon collection including limited-edition bottles available only at the distillery as well as shop for your favorite Wild Turkey souvenirs. When you enter, be sure to look to your left. You may see Jimmy and his wife sitting there, talking to their guest, and signing bottles.
Stop #2 – The Mash House
Next, you will board a bus and be taken up the hill to the distillery where you will enter the mash house. This is where Wild Turkey’s bourbon begins its journey. Wild Turkey is famous for its high-rye mash bill, which gives the whiskey its distinct spice. You’ll see the massive fermenters bubbling with a mix of corn, rye, and malted barley. It’s a recipe passed down through generations and has been perfected over time.
Stop #3 – The Still Room
In the still room, you’ll witness the heart of the operation. Wild Turkey uses a 52-foot column still and distills its whiskey twice to ensure quality. This massive piece of whiskey technology stands tall as your guide walks you through the distillation process, giving you a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship involved.
Stop #4 – The Rickhouse
One of the most amazing parts of the tour is the visit to the rickhouse. This is where Wild Turkey’s bourbon is stored and is aged to perfection. As soon as you enter the building, you are met with barrels of bourbon stacked from floor to ceiling and as far as the eye can see. Its impressive to see the number of barrels in one building, but then you realize, Wild Turkey has many more rickhouses full of Bourbon just waiting to be poured into a bottle and purchased by Turkey fans from all over the world.
Stop #5 – Back to the Visitors Center to end with a Tasting
The tour culminates with a bourbon tasting. You’ll get to try Wild Turkey’s signature expressions, you may even get to sample a distillery-exclusive bottle. As you taste, your guide will explain the nuances of each bourbon. You’ll experience the spiciness of Wild Turkey 101 from its high-rye content and the softer notes of toffee and dried fruit in Russell’s Reserve 10-Year. You’ll learn to savor bourbon like an expert, from nosing the glass to taking that slow, deliberate first sip.
Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon enthusiast or just beginning to explore the world of whiskey, a visit to Wild Turkey Distillery is a must. It’s a journey that will deepen your appreciation for the art and history behind every bottle.
THIS WEEK’S CONVERSATION TOPIC!
Have you visited the Wild Turkey Distillery? If so, what did you think? Have you visited other distilleries? Which was your favorite? Let me know. I would love to know your thoughts, so comment below. You know I love conversation and will reply to you.
As always, I want to thank you so much for taking the time to read this. Until the next Whiskey Wednesday, if you’re going to enjoy a little smoke & oak, just remember, “Life’s too short, enjoy the good stuff…” and do it responsibly!
Charles Ruth